New Jersey Monthly: The Can-Do Spirit of New Jersey’s Citizen Scientists

Citizen science projects are an amazing way for volunteers to contribute to ongoing research projects. By using volunteers scientists are able to extend the data collected for projects, and help more wildlife. The Amphibian Crossing Project is one of the ways CWF works with volunteers to protect imperiled wildlife.

New Jersey is a web of criss-crossed roads and developments that often separate amphibian’s winter burrows from their spring breeding pools. Many frogs, salamanders, and toads must dodge traffic in order to get where they need to go. With high mortality rates year after year, it doesn’t take long for a population to nose-dive.

CWF has been partnering with NJ’s Endangered and Nongame Species Program (ENSP) since 2002 to protect early-spring breeding amphibians like the wood frog, spotted salamander, Jefferson salamander, and spring peeper during their annual migration.

On peak nights each Spring, we work with a fleet of incredible volunteers to hustle amphibians across the road at rescue sites, collect data on the numbers and species seen, measure the impacts of vehicular traffic, and document additional amphibian crossings for future protection. 

If you are interested in volunteering for the Amphibian Crossing Project, please contact Allegra Mitchell. Please note that at this time the Amphibian Crossing Project is is currently operating in northern and central New Jersey.

Resources:

• New Jersey Monthly: The Can-Do Spirit of New Jersey’s Citizen Scientists
• CWF’s Amphibian Crossing Project
• Learn more about the incredible lives of amphibians found right here in NJ! For viewing guides and CDs, visit the Books and Publications section of our Store.